On December 11 at 7:50 am, Deschutes County 911 received information that an unidentified male was running around the area of the Old Mill District. The male had mentioned he was "stabbed" and had a non-life threatening injury to his leg. Bend Police Officers responded to the area and eventually found the male at the Round-a-Bout located on Reed Market and SW Bond. The male was identified as Christopher Van Wambeke Ward. Ward admitted the injury to his leg was self-inflicted. Based on the circumstances of this investigation, Ward was transported to St. Charles-Bend for evaluation.

Bend Police were on-scene at St. Charles Emergency Department with Ward, at which time Ward ran out of the emergency room. Ward ran through locked doors at the emergency department, ran under a fence and got into a Tomco Electric box style van. Ward stole the van and raced out of the parking area around St. Charles-Bend. Ward drove through a temporary fence in place for the construction at St. Charles-Bend. When Ward drove through the fence he caused damage to several vehicles belonging to employees at St. Charles-Bend.

As Ward was driving out of St. Charles parking lot, he nearly struck a Bend Police Officer with the vehicle.

During a search of the immediate area, Bend Officers located the stolen van and attempted to stop the van Ward was operating. Ward did not yield to officers and drove in an erratic and treacherous manner, putting several community members at risk. Bend Police discontinued the pursuit of the vehicle but set up in areas where Ward has been known to frequent.

Deschutes County 911 received several driving complaints from concerned citizens regarding the van Ward was operating. Ward caused damage to the property at 61691 SE 27th Street (Church of Christ) during this time.

Shortly after Ward eluded officers, he was located within the perimeter where Bend Police had been set up. Ward again eluded Bend Police and eventually parked the stolen van in a business on American Loop. Ward attempted to steal a second vehicle (a red Subaru), but eventually left the vehicle without stealing it.

Ward walked west on Reed Market, crossed the empty canal and entered a third vehicle. This residence is located in the 600 block of SE Reed Market. Bend Police, Deschutes County Sheriff's Office and the Oregon State Police made contact with Ward inside this vehicle. Ward was taken into custody without incident at 12:45pm.

Silver Rail Elementary School was placed on a brief "Lockout" during this incident.

Ward was taken back to St. Charles for clearance as he sustained new non-life threatening injuries. Ward was transported to the Deschutes County Jail at 4:30pm and lodged on Attempt to Elude in a Vehicle (2 counts), Attempted Assault 1 on a Public Safety Officer, Reckless Driving (2 counts), Criminal Mischief 1, Unlawful Use of a Motor Vehicle, Unlawful Entry into a Motor Vehicle, Failure to Perform the Duties of a Driver, Criminal Trespass II.

Lebar, who exhibited signs of having recently used controlled substances, was arrested after a pat-down for weapons yielded a syringe, which Lebar admitted contained Methamphetamine residue.

A search, incident to a lawful arrest, was conducted of Lebar's person and backpack. It yielded Suboxone (a controlled substance), multiple double edged throwing daggers (restricted weapons), a digital scale, and over four and a half ounces of Heroin. The estimated street value of the Heroin is approximately $5,000.

Lebar was booked and lodged at the Benton County Jail where he was charged with Unlawful Delivery of Heroin, Unlawful Possession of Heroin, Unlawful Possession of a Schedule III Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine, and being a Felon in Possession of a Restricted Weapon (x4).
XXX

On December 5th, 2017, at 8:13pm Corvallis Police Department Officers responded to the Corvallis Nails and Spa, at 2321 NW Kings Blvd for an assault that had just occurred. The victim, Mitch Dong was assaulted by 49-year-old Than Kim of Albany. Dong was taken to Good Samaritan Hospital in Corvallis where he later died on 12-12-17. Kim, who was initially arrested on numerous charges including Attempted Murder, has been charged with Murder and is currently lodged at the Benton County Jail on $3,000,000 bail.

The Board of Directors of Douglas County Fire District No 2 will hold its Regular Board meeting at DCFD#2 Fire Station 655 at 6000 Garden Valley Rd., Roseburg, OR on Tuesday, December 19, 2017 at 5:30 p.m

The Board of Directors of Winston-Dillard Fire District No. 5 will hold its Regular Board meeting at their fire station, 250 SE Main St., Winston, OR on Monday, December 18, 2017 at 5:30 p.m.

Two members of the Douglas County Sheriff's Office were recently honored at the Oregon State Sheriff's Association annual awards banquet in Bend, Oregon.

Senior Deputy Andrew Renyer was awarded the Jail Command Council's Deputy of the Year. This award is reserved for the men and women who serve in the capacity of corrections deputies, who face many challenges each day. The daily operations performed by these members of law enforcement is vital to the operation of Oregon jails.

Senior Deputy Renyer was honored for his dedication, commitment and positive attitude as a Douglas County Sheriff's Corrections Deputy.

Senior Deputy Renyer assumed the assignment of jail release officer in January of 2017 and has performed those duties efficiently. The average daily population of the jail has decreased by 11 inmates, which results in considerable savings to the Sheriff's corrections operating budget. In addition to his regular assignment, Senior Deputy Renyer oversees the inmate classification process. He has taken proactive measures to update and streamline the process.

Senior Deputy Renyer has assisted the department in recent months by covering shift supervisor responsibilities in the absence of a sergeant. He regularly assists in other areas of operations of the department.

"Senior Deputy Renyer is self-motivated and has a good attitude. He can always be counted on to go above and beyond the expectations of the department", said Lt. Mike Root, jail commander.

Senior Deputy Renyer has worked for the Douglas County Sheriff's Office since 2008.

Undersheriff Brian Sanders was nominated by Sheriff Hanlin and selected to receive the Distinguished Service Award. This prestigious award is presented to a member of law enforcement who in the performance of his or her duties performs an act of outstanding or especially meritorious service while demonstrating selflessness and a devotion to duty.

Undersheriff Brian Sanders began his career with the Douglas County Sheriff's Office in 1989. He served as a patrol deputy, field training officer, tactical response team member and commander, street crimes investigator, patrol sergeant, DINT operations sergeant and patrol lieutenant. In 2009, he was promoted to Undersheriff where he has served since that time.

The Undersheriff was praised for his works in helping to build and maintain a high level of professionalism throughout the Douglas County Sheriff's Office. His ongoing work on the Sheriff's Office budget has been highly valued and respected. He was also praised for his "irreplaceable leadership and day-to-day management of the Sheriff's Office" following the 2015 Umpqua Community College shooting.

Undersheriff Sanders officially retired on July 28, 2017. Since that time, he continues to fill the position at the request of Sheriff Hanlin until a transitional period takes effect in June of 2018.

Sheriff Hanlin said "The Undersheriff's dedication, professionalism, leadership and friendship has been highly valued, and will be greatly missed in June."

Eugene Springfield Fire is proud to announce the promotion of Battalion Chief Ray Brown to the position of Deputy Chief of Fire Operations. Chief Brown has over 20 years of public safety experience. He was hired in 1997 as a Police Officer for the Eugene Police Department, where he worked on teams such as Patrol, Special Weapons and Tactics Team (SWAT), and was also a Fire Arms Instructor.

Deputy Chief Brown's firefighting career began with California Department of Forestry in 1985 as a seasonal firefighter. Locally he volunteered with Lane Rural Fire and Rescue prior to joining Eugene Springfield Fire as a Firefighter/EMT in 2006. Moving up the ranks he has worked as a Firefighter, Captain, Training Captain, Battalion Chief and now his new role as Deputy Chief of Fire Operations.

Deputy Chief Brown has a Bachelor's Degree in Economics from California State University Chico and a Master's Degree in Public Affairs from the University of Oregon.

Fire Chief Joe Zaludek commented, "Chief Brown continuously demonstrates his professionalism, commitment, and dedication to this organization. His positive attitude and exceptional leadership skills is an asset to Eugene Springfield Fire and we are proud to have him serve as the Deputy Chief of Fire Operations."

Eugene Springfield Fire is currently facilitating the department's largest ever recruit Firefighter/Paramedic Academy. The group originally began with 19 Firefighter/Paramedic trainees (normal academies are 10-12 at most), 15 will successfully complete the program today, Friday, December 8, 2017. Recruits have learned the fundamentals of firefighting and paramedicine over the last 14 weeks. They have participated in live fire burns, simulated medical emergencies, driving simulators, classroom, and practical application of fire theory and modern firefighting techniques. In addition to the certifications they will have earned, they will also have received orientation and been checked off on all Advanced Life Support (ALS) medical protocols and procedures they need to be part of an ambulance crew. Eugene Springfield Fire's Training Staff has been working long hours to accommodate this large group of trainees and has done an outstanding job training each recruit these past 14 weeks.

Graduation ceremony to be held December 8, 2017, at
1:30 p.m., Emergency Services Training Center, 1705 West 2nd Avenue.

Welcome to the Oregon FBI's Tech Tuesday segment. This week, building a digital defense against "Internet of Things" - or "IoT" attacks.

If you were thinking about asking Santa for something from the "Internet of Things" world this year -- you have plenty of options. The possibilities include everything from devices that control your lights and thermostat to security systems to gaming systems and music players. There are wearables such as fitness trackers and tech-connected clothes. Or, how about a new Internet-enabled fridge or stove?

Once you get your wish list together, don't forget to ask for a hub to control all of your other "things" through a single app on your phone. We will all be living like the family of the future in no time! In fact, the FBI estimates that the number of "Internet of Things" or "IoT" devices will increase from 5 million last year to anywhere from 20 to 50 million in the year 2020.

But, before the sleigh and eight tiny reindeer show up on your roof, make sure you are ready for the reality of what you are bringing into your home.

Bad actors have been taking advantage of the lack of security, manufacturers' difficulty in patching vulnerabilities, and consumers' inexperience to exploit these devices. In many cases the devices are just using default usernames and passwords, which make them easy targets for the cyber thieves. Criminals can use that open door to force your device into service as part of a botnet -- or to access other connected systems that have sensitive personal or business info.

It can be difficult to know if your IoT device has been compromised, but there are simple steps you can take to help secure your things:

Change default usernames and passwords. Many default passwords are collected and posted on the Internet. Do not use common words and simple phrases or passwords containing easily obtainable personal information, such as important dates or names of children or pets.

If you can't change the password on the device, make sure your wireless Internet service has a strong password and encryption.

Invest in a secure router with robust security and authentication. Most routers will allow users to whitelist, or specify, which devices are authorized to connect to a local network.

Isolate IoT devices on their own protected networks.

Turn off devices off when not in use.

Research your options when shopping for new IoT devices. When conducting research, use reputable Web sites that specialize in cyber security analysis and provide reviews on consumer products.

Look for companies that offer firmware and software updates, and identify how and when these updates are provided.

Identify what data is collected and stored by the devices, including whether you can opt out of this collection, how long the data is stored, whether it is encrypted, and if the data is shared with a third party.

Ensure all IoT devices are up to date and security patches are incorporated when available.

Santa may want to give you the future at your fingertips -- just make sure you are ready for it. For more tips about IoT devices, check out the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov.

Coming up next week: how to protect your kids when Internet-connected toys show up under the Christmas tree.

BEND - Several Jackson County employees, volunteers, and citizens have been honored by the Oregon State Sheriff's Association for their service and bravery. The awards were presented during the OSSA Annual Conference in Bend on December 6, 2017. Annual honorees are selected from nominations made by sheriff's offices throughout the state.

The following is a list of the 2017 award winners from Jackson County:

Sheriff Nathan Sickler expressed his gratitude for the dedicated service and selfless action taken by this year's honorees. He said if the OSSA's awards included additional service categories, he is certain that even more Jackson County representatives would be recognized. For more information about the OSSA, follow this link: https://oregonsheriffs.org/.

WHITE CITY -- A Medford man is in jail on charges related to the sexual abuse of a kindergarten student in White City. On Friday, December 8, 2017, Jackson County Sheriff's Office detectives arrested Jerry Duane Lodge, 72, of the 700-block of Crater Lake Avenue. The investigation showed Lodge sexually touched the 5-year-old girl while volunteering at Lower Table Rock Elementary School.

Lodge was in the classroom through the Foster Grandparent Program facilitated by Community Volunteer Network, a division of Pacific Retirement Services (PRS). The program places senior volunteers in classrooms throughout the Rogue Valley. Participants must pass a criminal background check.

Detectives say once the abuse allegations surfaced on December 6, officials with Jackson County School District #9 and PRS prevented Lodge from having any further contact with children and cooperated fully with the criminal investigation. Today, school officials are sending a notice to all parents in the child's classroom. It includes guidelines to help parents speak with their children, as well as information about how to make a report in the event their child discloses abuse. The school district will also offer an opportunity for those parents to meet with school officials and detectives later this week.

During the investigation, detectives learned that Lodge volunteered in classrooms at McLoughlin Middle School and Kids Unlimited in Medford during the 2017 calendar year. No allegations of abuse by Lodge have been reported at those locations.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call Detective Jason Penn at (541) 770-8925.

SHADY COVE -- A man and woman are lodged in the Jackson County Jail on multiple charges associated with a robbery involving a firearm. The incident occurred late Thursday night in the parking lot of the Chase Bank in Shady Cove.

On Thursday, December 7, 2017, at 11:57 p.m., deputies responded to a report of shots fired at the Chase Bank. The caller reported a man had shot out the tires of her vehicle with a high-powered rifle, and then left in a vehicle on Highway 62 toward Butte Falls. Dispatch also received calls from neighbors reporting the sound of several gunshots.

An Eagle Point Police Department officer located the suspect vehicle, a gold Lexus sedan, on Butte Falls Highway and initiated a traffic stop. The suspected shooter, Kevin Don Anderson, Jr., 20, of Eagle Point, and the driver of the vehicle, Bridgett Wallace, 23, of Shady Cove, were taken into custody without incident. Deputies recovered an AR-15 rifle and a shotgun from the vehicle.

At the scene of the shooting, deputies learned the victim vehicle, which was occupied by two women, was parked in front of the Chase Bank ATM when they were confronted by the suspects. Anderson fired several shots, striking the vehicle. Nobody was injured.

Deputies say the suspects and victims were known to each other. The incident apparently began as a dispute over money between Anderson and one of the victims. The two were previously involved in a relationship.

Following the investigation, deputies lodged Anderson and Wallace in the Jackson County Jail. Charges against Anderson include robbery in the second degree, attempted robbery in the second degree, unlawful use of a weapon, menacing (two counts), recklessly endangering another person (two counts), criminal mischief in the first degree, and coercion. Wallace is charged with robbery in the second degree.

MEDFORD - On Wednesday, December 6, 2017, day shift deputies spent a few hours focusing on speed violations on North Foothill Road. In addition to three citations for speeding, deputies issued two citations for cell phone use, and six for driving while suspended (violation). Two people were arrested for driving while suspended (misdemeanor), including the driver of the red Honda pictured.

A passenger in that car ran away during the traffic stop. A deputy chased him over a quarter of a mile and arrested him (extra thanks to the citizen who helped slow him down!). The suspect was identified as Guillermo Ishtar Guitron III, 26, of Medford. Guitron had a felony warrant for parole violation.

K9 Jack was deployed around the car and alerted to the presence of drugs. Deputies found methamphetamine in the vehicle. The driver, Bill Wesley Spencer, Jr., 23, and a female passenger, Patricia Gaylynn Coggins, 21, were arrested and lodged in jail for probation violation.

Keep an eye out for more focused patrols on North Foothill Road and in other problem areas of the county. If you would like to see deputies focus on a particular traffic problem in your neighborhood, feel free to call dispatch at (541) 776-7206 to request extra patrol.

The Lincoln City Police Department is pleased to announce they have recently been awarded a traffic safety grant for DUII Enforcement. The $3080.00 DUII Enforcement Grant funds will be utilized to put extra patrol officers on patrol during dates and times when higher numbers of impaired drivers are likely to be on the roadways.

The Lincoln City Police Department plans on using the first of these grant funds during the Christmas / New Year's holiday season. This time period is part of the national "High Visibility Enforcement" event time period which runs from December 15, 2017 through January 1, 2018. The national High Visibility Enforcement events are designed to increase the number of patrol officers on the streets nationwide with an emphasis on seeking out drivers impaired by alcohol or drugs and removing them from the roadways. DUIIs continue to be a leading cause of motor vehicle crash deaths and injuries throughout the nation. The Lincoln City Police Department is pleased to be joining forces with other law enforcement agencies to crack down on impaired drivers. Our goal is simple: to save lives. Drunk driving is simply not worth the risk; if you drive drunk, you will be arrested.

DUII Enforcement Grant funds from the previous grant allocation were last used during the 2017 Labor Day weekend time period. The results of two enforcement operations include one driver being arrested for DUII, one Felony warrant arrest, one Misdemeanor warrant arrest, as well as five other traffic citations being issued.

The members of your Lincoln City Police Department are committed to the safety of our citizens and visitors and these grant funds are a valuable resource that assist us in improving the traffic safety in our community. These grant funds were made possible through Oregon Impact and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

Winter is a time we should pay close attention to the safety of our pets. Here are some safety tips to follow:

1. Pets that live outdoors should be fed a bit more in the winter because they need the extra calories to stay warm. They also should have fresh water put out a couple of times a day, or consider a special bowl that prevents the water from freezing.

2. If your pet goes outdoors, be aware of the temperature. Pets can get frostbite very easily on the ears, tail and paws.

3. When walking your dog in freezing conditions, check the paws to make sure that ice is not building up between the toes and that salt or gravel from the roads is not irritating the skin.

4. If your dog is a swimmer, keep it on a leash around open water or unstable ice. Hypothermia can set in quickly and the dog may be unable to get out of the water.

5. Before you start your car, ensure no animals have decided to nap in a warm spot under the hood of the vehicle.

6. If decorating for the holidays, keep ornaments out of the reach of your pets. Remember that poinsettias, holly, mistletoe and other plants can be toxic if ingested.

7. Ingesting anti-freeze can be fatal for your dog or cat. It has a sweet taste and even a tiny amount can cause severe kidney damage and even death. If you spill anti-freeze, soak it up immediately. (Clay kitty litter works well and discard the litter once the anti-freeze has been absorbed.)

For more information and tips, visit our web site at www.lincolncountysheriff.net and Like us on Facebook at Lincoln County Sheriff's Office -- Oregon.

Linn County Sheriff Bruce Riley reports on Tuesday, December 12, at 3:28 a.m., his deputies responded to a call of a female with injuries lying along the side of Old Salem Road, near ATI, Millersburg.

Through their investigation, deputies learned the female victim, Rachele Ann Bowes, 38, was struck by a vehicle causing her life threatening injuries. Bowes is thought to be a transient of the Albany area.

Through the investigation detectives have reason to believe the vehicle that struck Bowes was a dark blue 1999-2005 Volkswagen. The vehicle will most likely have front end damage. If anyone has information about this vehicle or the hit and run, please contact Detective John Lovik at (541) 967-3950.

Linn County Sheriff Bruce Riley reports on Tuesday, December 12, at 3:28 a.m., his deputies responded to a call of a female lying along the side of the road with injuries.

Through their investigation, deputies learned the female victim, Rachele Ann Bowes, 38, was struck by a vehicle causing her life threatening injuries. Bowes is thought to be a transient of the Albany area.

Through the investigation detectives have reason to believe the vehicle that struck Bowes was a dark blue 1999-2005 Volkswagen. The vehicle will most likely have front end damage. If anyone has information about this vehicle or the hit and run, please contact Detective John Lovik at (541) 967-3950.

Linn County Sheriff Bruce Riley reports last night at 10:25 p.m., his deputies responded to a reported non-injury motor vehicle crash on Hayden Road in Lebanon.

When deputies arrived, they found a 2017 Dodge Ram1500 pickup had crashed into a house. The vehicle drove through the front window and came to rest in the living room. Only the rear portion of the pickup was sticking out of the house.

Fortunately, just prior to the crash, the residents had gone to bed and were not in the front portion of the house. Deputies identified the driver as Haven Austin Hansen (22) of Lebanon and his passenger as Leif Jacob Erickson (27) of Sweet Home. Deputies determined alcohol was a factor in the crash.

Hansen was arrested for driving under the influence of intoxicants, reckless driving, and driving while suspended misdemeanor. The blood alcohol content for Hansen was almost three times the legal limit. The vehicle was towed from the scene.

The Lebanon Fire Department assisted the family in boarding up the front portion of the home.

Today at about 3:30 PM, Marion County Sheriff's Deputies responded to the 11400 block of Sunnyview Rd NE regarding a traffic crash. This crash involved a school bus full of kids, all of which are ok, and a smaller ford pickup. The investigation has determined icy road conditions to be the cause. The driver of the pickup lost control and crossed the center line and hit the bus head-on.

Parents are responding to the scene to pick up their children and there are no reports of injuries. The roadway is expected to be blocked for the next hour. This particular area doesn't get much sunlight due to being covered by trees.

The Marion County Sheriff's Office would like to caution commuters when driving in the recent cold/icy conditions we have had and to consider the following:
- Accelerate and decelerate slowly.
- Drive Slowly
- The normal dry pavement following distance of three to four seconds should be increased to eight to ten seconds.
- Know you brakes.
- Don't power up hills and Don't stop going down hills.
- If necessary stay at home.

Today around 1:00 p.m., deputies were called to Dick's Sporting Goods on Lancaster Drive NE, after a woman mouthed the words "help me" to several patrons inside of the store. When deputies arrived they contacted a woman, her minor child and Christopher Hahn-Collins, age 25, of Salem.

From their investigation deputies and detectives believe that Mr. Hahn-Collins came to the woman's south east Salem home late Friday afternoon where he broke in and waited. After the family arrived home Mr. Hahn-Collins held the victim and her minor child at knife point over night and into the next day. The following day the victim convinced the suspect to take her to Dick's Sporting Goods where she was able to mouth the words "help me" to several patrons inside the store.

Detectives do not believe that Mr. Hahn-Collins knew the victim at the time of her kidnapping. Mr. Hahn-Collins has been lodged at the Marion County Jail for the crimes of Kidnapping 1 x 2, Menacing, Burglary 1, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, Giving False Information to the Police and a Parole Violation Warrant for Sex Abuse.

The Marion County Sheriff's Office is seeking any information regarding Mr. Hahn-Collins.
Your tips can be made by calling 503 540 8079 or by using our Facebook page at Facebook.com/MCSOInTheKnow. The Sheriff's Office does not intend to release any further information pertaining to the investigation or the victims.

Booking image provided is from a past booking at the Marion County Jail

This morning at 8:50 a.m., The Marion County Sheriff's Office responded to the 8000 block of Squirrel Hill Rd Se on a report of a male and female attempting to break into a home. The homeowner was at work and received a notification from his Ring Video Doorbell device. He logged into his app and could see the male at his front door trying to kick and pry the door open. He immediately called 911 and reported the incident.

Deputies arrived on scene and initially did not see anyone at the residence. Traffic Safety Team Deputy Andrew Derschon was checking the area nearby and located a male and female near a vehicle on Sunnyside Rd SE matching the original description given by the victim. The 38-Year old male was identified as Apollo Charles Biggs of Portland and 38-Year old female Sheryl Annette Loschiavo of Portland.

At 7:59 AM on Thursday, December 07, 2017, Newport Fire Department was dispatched to a natural gas leak at 724 SE 4th Street in Newport. A construction crew working on the Bay/Moore Storm Sewer Replacement Project accidently cut through a 1 ?1/2-inch gas line buried under the street.

Fire and police personnel limited access to SE 4th Street between SE Harney and SE Fogarty Street along with SE Fogarty Street between SE 2nd Street and SE 5th Street. Four homes, and 12 people located immediately downwind were safely evacuated. Yaquina View School was asked to keep their students indoors during this incident as a safety precaution.

Newport Fire Department received assistance from Newport Police Department and Newport Public Works Department. Newport Fire Department responded with two fire engines, one rescue truck, two chief officers and ten firefighters. After about an hour, Northwest Natural Gas Operations crews were able to turn off the flow of gas without further incident

The Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal, through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, activated its Agency Operations Center Wednsday, December 6th and deployed 15 strike teams with equipment and personnel who are now actively engaged in assisting with the wildfires in California.

All Oregon resources are assigned to assist with the Thomas Fire burning near Ventura, California. The California Office of Emergency Services reports that the Thomas Fire is at 230,500 acres and is 15% contained.

"Oregon resources are doing great work and their morale is good," said Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple. "We continue to be proud of our firefighters professionalism and effective intergration with California resources during these difficult fires."

In addition to OSFM's deployed resources, the Oregon Department of Forestry has also deployed 60 personnel and 25 engines to assist with the California wildfires.

Be sure to follow the OSFM on Facebook/Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal and Twitter @OSFM for regular updates.

California made the request through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact a national state-to-state mutual aid system. The EMAC request is sent directly to Oregon Emergency Management who contact and coordinate with the appropriate Oregon agency to fulfill the requests.

With the holiday season in full swing, State Fire Marshal Jim Walker urges citizens to remember fire prevention when decorating and entertaining.

From 2012 through 2016, Oregon fire agencies reported there were 3,510 residential fires during the holiday period from November 22 through January 15. These fires were reported to have resulted in 14 deaths, 194 injuries, and more than $61.2 million in property loss.

"This season is a busy and exciting time of year, but don't let that distract you from keeping your family and friends safe from fire," says Walker. "By following a few important prevention tips for Christmas trees, decorations, and candles, you can help ensure your holidays remain happy."

Tree care and decorating tips:
Choose a fresh, healthy tree with a deep-green color and flexible needles.
When you get the tree home, cut off the bottom two inches of the trunk. This creates a fresh, raw cut for the tree to soak up water.
Water your tree daily. A tree may consume between a quart and a gallon of water per day.
Place the tree at least three feet away from any heat source such as a fireplace, woodstove, space heater, heating vent, baseboard heater, or radiator.
Use only noncombustible or flame resistant materials to trim a tree.
Always unplug tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.
If using a woodstove or fireplace, keep it screened at all times. Keep ribbons, boughs, and other decorative materials at least three feet away.
After the holiday season or whenever your tree dries out, promptly dispose of it and other dry greenery. Burning a tree in a stove or fireplace is extremely dangerous; proper disposal includes recycling or pick-up by a disposal service.
Never burn wrapping paper in the fireplace or wood stove. Wrapping paper burns at higher temperatures than wood and can cause a chimney fire.

Electrical safety
Maintain your holiday lights. Inspect holiday lights each year for frayed wires, bare spots, and broken or cracked sockets.
Do not overload electrical sockets. Do not link more than three light strands, unless the manufacturer's directions indicate it is safe.
Protect electrical cords from damage. To avoid shock or fire hazards, cords should never be pinched by furniture, placed under rugs, located near heat sources or attached by nails or staples.
Make sure all extension cords and electrical decorations used outdoors are marked for outdoor use.

Candle safety
Consider using battery-operated flameless candles, which can look and smell like real candles.
Never leave a burning candle unattended. Extinguish candles when you go to bed, leave a room, or before leaving the house.
Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn. Keep candles at least one foot from combustibles including clothing, curtains, upholstered furniture, greenery, and decorations.
Always use a sturdy non-combustible (metal, glass, or ceramic) candleholder. If a sturdy non-combustible candleholder is not available, the candle can be placed on a non-combustible plate.
Place candles out of reach of small children and pets.
Avoid candles with items embedded in them such as twigs, flowers, or leaves. These items can ignite or even explode.
Always use a flashlight -- not a candle -- for emergency lighting.

General fire safety
Keep combustibles at least three feet from heat sources.
For increased protection, have working smoke alarms on every level of your home (including the basement), in each bedroom, and in the hallway outside each bedroom.
Make a home fire escape plan and practice it with your family and any overnight guests.
Keep escape routes clear of clutter so you can escape quickly in case of fire.

The Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal, through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, has activated its Agency Operations Center and deployed 15 strike teams with equipment and personnel who are now actively engaged in assisting with the wildfires in California.

All Oregon resources have been assigned to either the Thomas Fire (seven Oregon strike teams) burning near Ventura, California, or the Creek Fire (eight Oregon strike teams) burning near Sylmar, California. They are very busy currently working on their assignments. Total Oregon deployment: 269 personnel and 75 apparatus.

"Today's forecasted weather will be a test to all firefighters and residents with winds expected at up to 60 mph," said Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple. "These winds are expected to last through Friday, possibly diminishing over the weekend and picking back up again at the beginning of next week."

California OES reports the Thomas Fire is at 96,000 acres and 5% contained, and the Creek Fire is at 12,605 acres and 10% contained.

Be sure to follow the OSFM on Facebook/Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal and Twitter @OSFM for regular updates.

California made the request through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact a national state-to-state mutual aid system. The EMAC request is sent directly to Oregon Emergency Management who contact and coordinate with the appropriate Oregon agency to fulfill the requests.

OSP is asking for the public's assistance with the investigation that killed a Bend man last week. Shannon ROGERS, from Goldendale, Washington, is believed to have been driving in a reckless manner prior to the crash that took the life of a Bend man.

Investigators believe ROGERS was traveling from Fresno, CA to Goldendale when the crash occurred. Any persons who may have witnessed the vehicle in the attached photographs driving in an unsafe manner is urged to contact Senior Trooper Toni Raugust at 503-375-3555.

ROGERS is still at Saint Charles Bend receiving medical care. No further information at this time.

End Release

Previous Release:
On Wednesday, December 6, 2017, at about 10:15 a.m., Oregon State Police (OSP) Troopers and emergency personnel responded to the report of a two-vehicle crash on Highway 97 at Milepost 151 (near Sunriver).

Preliminary investigation revealed that a silver 2006 Nissan Quest, operated by Shannon Ray ROGERS, age 55, of Goldendale, Washington, was traveling northbound when for unknown reasons, struck the rear of a northbound white 1981 Toyota pickup, operated by Brian Jay HARRIS, age 56, of Bend. The Toyota veered off the road and impacted into a tree and the Nissan continued northbound and then veered off the road and also impacted into a tree.

HARRIS was pronounced deceased at the scene and ROGERS received non-life threatening injuries and was transported to the local area hospital for treatment.

Highway 97 was closed for about 30 minutes until one alternating lane was opened for traffic. OSP was assisted at the scene by Deschutes County Sheriff's Office, Sunriver Fire Department, Bend Fire and Rescue, and Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT).

Alcohol and speed are being investigated as possible contributing factors in the crash. This is an ongoing investigation and more information will be released when available.

As this investigation continues to develop, investigators learned the the information regarding the direction of travel for both vehicles was erroneous. It has been determined that the white 2009 Kia Rio was in fact traveling eastbound and the white Jeep had been westbound at the time of the crash. The previous press release has been updated to reflect this new information.

The investigation is continuing and future press releases will be coordinated with the Douglas County District Attorney's Office.

End of Update

On Monday December 11, 2017 at approximately 7:26 AM, Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a two vehicle crash on State Route 38 near milepost 12.

The investigation revealed that a westbound white 2015 Jeep Cherokee crossed the centerline and crashed into an eastbound white 2009 Kia Rio operated by Lisa OSWILL, age 48, of Tigard head-on. The passenger in the Kia was identified as Carly Renee WILLIAMS-OSWILL, age 21, from Wedderburn, Oregon. Both were pronounced deceased at the scene. The two occupants of the Jeep were identified as Lacy Little Deer SANTOS, age 37 who was the driver and Kylee Louise SANTOS, age 15 both from Scottsburg, Oregon. Lacy SANTOS was transported by ground ambulance to a hospital in Eugene for serious, but non-life threatening injuries. Kylee SANTOS was transported by ground ambulance to a hospital in Reedsport also for serious, but non-life threatening injuries. All occupants from both vehicles were properly utilizing their safety restraints and both vehicles' airbags deployed.

Speed and icy roads are being considered factors in this crash. SR 38 was closed for approximately three hours following the crash. OSP was assisted by Douglas County Sheriff's Dept., Scottsburg Fire and Medical, Reedsport Fire Dept. and ODOT.

On the afternoon of Monday December 11th, 2017, Troopers with the Oregon State Police executed a search warrant at a residence on Northwest Columbia Drive, located north of Madras in Jefferson County. OSP had conducted an initial investigation of property crime and obtained a search warrant to seize evidence at the residence of 28 year old Madras resident, Joshua Joseph. The search warrant was executed and in addition to the expected evidence, Troopers discovered a clandestine drug lab along with other drug related evidence. The Oregon State Police Drug Enforcement Section responded to process the illegal drug lab and all discovered hazardous materials were properly collected.

Joshua Joseph was taken into custody without incident and he was lodged at the Jefferson County Jail on the following charges:

Forgery in the 1st Degree
Possession of a Forged Instrument in the 1st Degree
Theft by Deception
Possession of a Stolen Vehicle
Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle

Additional drug related charges are anticipated following a referral to the Jefferson County District Attorney's Office. The Oregon State Police were assisted by the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement Team (CODE), the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, Jefferson County District Attorney's Office and the Jefferson County Fire District.

On December 7, 2017, at approximately 7:30 p.m., Oregon State Police (OSP) Troopers and emergency personnel responded to the report of a two-vehicle crash on Highway 99S near milepost 10 (Two and a half miles north of Cottage Grove).

The preliminary investigation revealed that a gray 2002 Honda, operated by Dillon Eugene PRIVITT, age 22, of Cottage Grove, was traveling northbound when for unknown reasons lost control and crossed into the path of an oncoming southbound white 1995 Ford Taurus, operated by Brittney Faye BURNFIELD, age 21, of Cottage Grove. The Honda impacted the Ford and PRIVITT was not wearing a seat belt. He suffered fatal injuries and was declared deceased at the scene by medical personnel. BURNFIELD was transported to Riverbend Hospital with serious injuries and is cooperating with the investigation.

Highway 99S was closed for approximately four hours while OSP Troopers conducted the investigation. OSP was assisted on scene by Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) Incident Response, the Cottage Grove Police Department, and South Lane Rural Fire.

On Wednesday, December 6, 2017, at about 6:00 p.m., Oregon State Police (OSP) Troopers and emergency personnel responded to the report of a vehicle versus bicyclist crash on Highway 99S near milepost 10.5 (Three miles north of Cottage Grove).

The preliminary investigation revealed a 13-year-old male juvenile was riding a bicycle on Highway 99S when he was struck by a southbound 2002 GMC 2500 pickup, operated by Richard L. PERINI, age 85, of Creswell. The juvenile suffered fatal injuries and was declared deceased at the scene by medical personnel. PERINI is cooperating with the investigation and is not suspected of any wrongdoing.

Highway 99S was closed for three hours while OSP Troopers conducted the investigation. OSP was assisted on scene by Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) Incident Response, Lane County Sheriff's Office, the Cottage Grove Police Department, and South Lane Rural Fire.

No photos are available for release and this is an ongoing investigation. More information will be released when available.

At 8:22 p.m. on December 12, 2017, Roseburg Fire Department was dispatched to a fire next to an out building at 905 W. Old Melrose Road. The fire was reported by the homeowners.

Firefighters arrived on scene to find a fully involved portable free standing structure with flames spreading to a nearby storage building. Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire which was contained to the free standing structure and storage building. The fire did not spread to the residential structure on the property. The fire damage was contained to the two out buildings and contents. The free standing structure had a motorcycle and all-terrain vehicle inside of the structure. There were no reported injuries.

The two out buildings and contents which are valued at $60,000 sustained approximately $20,000 in damage. The cause of the fire was investigated and determined to be discarded ashes from the homeowner's woodstove.

A total of 10 firefighters assisted with firefighting operations. Other agencies assisting with the fire included Pacific Power, Avista Utilities, and Roseburg Police Department.

The Roseburg Fire department would like to remind citizens that heating equipment is a leading cause of home fire deaths. Half of home heating equipment fires are reported during the months of December, January, and February. Here are some simple steps that can prevent most heating-related fires from happening:

Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home.

Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or portable space heater.

Have a three-foot "kid-free zone" around open fires and space heaters.

Never use your oven to heat your home.

Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer's instructions.

Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.

Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters.

Summary: Roseburg Police Officers will be participating in a traffic safety campaign focusing on DUII enforcement during the Christmas and New Year holiday season. Over the next several weeks there will be additional Officers working various shifts to specifically target DUII drivers. The Roseburg Police Department along with the Oregon Department of Transportation encourages all drivers to celebrate the holidays safely, and follow these tips:

Even one drink can impair your judgment and increase the risk of getting arrested for driving drunk--or worse, the risk of having a crash while driving.
If you will be drinking, do not plan on driving. Plan ahead; designate a sober driver before the party begins.
If you have been drinking, do not drive. Call a taxi, phone a sober friend or family member or use public transportation.
Be responsible. If someone you know is drinking, do not let that person get behind the wheel.
If you see an impaired driver on the road, contact law enforcement. Your actions may save someone's life, and inaction could cost a life.

Remember, it is never safe to drink and drive: Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.

Portland, OREGON and Columbia Falls, MAINE -- Dec. 16, 2017 -- Each December, Americans from all walks of life join together across the country to honor the service and sacrifices of their local veterans by participating in National Wreaths Across America Day -- this year, it will be held at more than 1,300 locations on Saturday, Dec. 16. Locally, at Willamette National Cemetery, there are more than 140,000 headstones, each with name engraved of a person who fought for the freedoms we all enjoy today. To date, only 350 remembrance wreaths have been sponsored for placement each year. However, the volunteers heading up the project locally were notified today an additional 5100 wreaths are being sent to the location from Wreaths Across America headquarters.

Both wreath sponsorships and the donation of volunteer time make the annual event a success. The national theme for the 2017 National Wreath Remembrance Day is 'I'm an American. Yes, I am!' which was inspired by a song of the same title, written by Maine native Rick Charette. The song and theme represent the sense of community and common ground that is fostered when people work together to support the military and their families.

"National Wreaths Across America Day is an opportunity to pause and say thank you during the busiest time of year, when so many are missing their loved ones even more. Placing a wreath and reading each name out loud keeps the memory of our veterans alive and represents a chance for the local community of Portland, OR, to honor local veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice for us all," said Karen Worcester, executive director, Wreaths Across America.

National Wreaths Across America Day began as a pilgrimage by a Maine wreath maker in a single truck delivering 5,000 donated wreaths to Arlington National Cemetery in 1992. Since then, the wreath laying has become an annual day of remembrance that honors fallen military and their families across the country.

Volunteers are needed to help place the wreaths at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, OR. Please visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org to find details about the local event or email h.perkins@orwg.cap.gov if you would like details on how to volunteer.

National Wreaths Across America Day is a free event and open to all people.

About Wreaths Across America
Wreaths Across America is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded to continue and expand the annual wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery begun by Maine businessman Morrill Worcester in 1992. The organization's mission -- Remember, Honor, Teach -- is carried out in part each year by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies in December at Arlington, as well as at hundreds of veterans' cemeteries and other locations in all 50 states and beyond. For more information or to sponsor a wreath please visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org.

Portland, Ore. -- The numbers are in and they're impressive. In 2017, anglers caught and removed more than 191,000 northern pikeminnow from the Columbia and Snake rivers, protecting young salmon and steelhead from predation.

Approximately 1,100 people registered to be part of the Northern Pikeminnow Sport Reward Program. All together anglers removed 191,483 of the salmon-eating predators from the two rivers, and were paid nearly $1,542,000 for their efforts. The program, funded by the Bonneville Power Administration, runs from May 1 through Sept. 30.

The anglers' successes mean BPA is also successfully meeting its program goals.

"The program's goal is to reduce the number of pikeminnow that prey heavily on juvenile salmon," said Makary Hutson, BPA project manager. "Annual harvest rate estimates, which are calculated using data from tagged fish caught by anglers, indicate the 2017 season met our program targets, which directly benefits juvenile salmon making their way to the ocean."

The reward program pays registered anglers $5 to $8 per fish, nine inches or longer. The more fish an angler catches during the season, the more each pikeminnow they reel in is worth. State fish and wildlife biologists also release more than 1,000 specially tagged northern pikeminnow, each worth $500.

This year the top 20 fishermen registered with the Sport Reward Program earned an average of nearly $30,000 each. The top angler earned nearly $84,000, reeling in more than 10,000 fish over the five-month season.

Northern pikeminnow are voracious eaters, consuming millions of young salmon and steelhead every year. Since 1990, anglers paid through the program have removed more than 4.8 million pikeminnow from the Columbia and Snake rivers. The program has reduced predation on young salmon and steelhead by up to 40 percent since it began.

The BPA-funded program is administered by the Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission. The 2018 season is scheduled for May 1 through Sept. 30, 2018. For more information about the program call 800-858-9015 or visit www.pikeminnow.org.

About BPA
The Bonneville Power Administration, headquartered in Portland, Oregon, is a nonprofit federal power marketer that sells wholesale electricity from 31 federal dams and one nuclear plant to 143 electric utilities, serving millions of consumers and businesses in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, western Montana and parts of California, Nevada, Utah and Wyoming. BPA delivers power via more than 15,000 circuit miles of lines and 260 substations to 511 transmission customers. In all, BPA markets about a third of the electricity consumed in the Northwest and operates three-quarters of the region's high-voltage transmission grid. BPA also funds one of the largest fish and wildlife programs in the world, and, with its partners, pursues cost-effective energy savings and operational solutions that help maintain affordable, reliable and carbon-free electric power for the Northwest. www.bpa.gov

Agenda items planned for this event will be covered during next month's regular meeting.
For questions about the meeting, please contact Jeff Puterbaugh, policy analyst at Jeffrey.L.Puterbaugh@state.or.us.

About the Oregon Disabilities Commission:
The Oregon Disabilities Commission is charged by state statute to advise the Department of Human Services, the Governor, the Legislative Assembly and appropriate state agency administrators on issues related to achieving the full economic, social, legal and political equity of individuals with disabilities. ODC also acts as a coordinating link between and among public and private organizations services individuals with disabilities.

(Salem, Ore.) -- The Medicaid Long Term Care Quality and Reimbursement Advisory Council meets Wednesday, December 13 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Barbara Roberts Human Services Building, Room 473, 500 Summer St. NE, Salem. The meeting is open to the public.

Agenda items include: announcements, public comment, council annual report final review, HB 3359 rule development update, other rule updates, and council business.

For those who can't attend in person there is a toll-free phone number that can also be accessed through Skype for Business: 1 503-934-1400; Participant Code: 1007451.

The meeting location is accessible to people with disabilities. For questions about accessibility or to request an accommodation, please contact Alex Pelusi at alex.j.pelusi@state.or.us. Requests should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting.

About the Medicaid Long Term Care Quality & Reimbursement Advisory Council: The Medicaid Long Term Care Quality and Reimbursement Advisory Council (MLTCQRAC) was established by the 1995 Legislative Assembly to advise the Department of Human Services Aging and People with Disabilities program on changes or modifications to the Medicaid reimbursement system for long-term care and community based care services.

(Salem, Ore.) -- The Oregon Disabilities Commission (ODC) Executive Committee will meet on Tuesday December 19, 2017 from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Barbara Roberts Human Services Building, 500 Summer St. NE, Room 160, Salem, Oregon, 97301. The meeting is open to the public.

The agenda includes regular executive committee business, review and approval of meeting agenda and prior meeting minutes, public comment, announcements, ODC business topics, other topics and next meeting agenda ideas.

People can also call into the meeting or attend via webinar: Conference line: 888-808-6929 Access code: 4517555.

The meeting location is accessible to people with disabilities. For questions about accessibility or to request an accommodation, please contact Alex Pelusi at Alex.J.Pelusi@state.or.us. Requests should be made at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting.

The Oregon Disabilities Commission is charged by state statute to advise the Department of Human Services, the Governor, the Legislative Assembly and appropriate state agency administrators on issues related to achieving the full economic, social, legal and political equity of individuals with disabilities. ODC also acts as a coordinating link between and among public and private organizations services individuals with disabilities.

Gov. Kate Brown announced today the appointment of Sheronne Blasi (pronounced "Share-ON Blaze-ee"), a 14-year Navy veteran, to serve as the next director of the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs, pending Senate confirmation in February. Once confirmed, Blasi will become the first woman veteran to head the agency in its 72-year history.

Prior to joining ODVA as its assistant director of Statewide Veteran Services in 2017, Blasi worked as a performance auditor for 15 years with the Secretary of State Audits Division. She managed performance audits which looked at the efficiency and effectiveness state agencies and their programs, and made recommendations for improvements to programs and services for Oregonians.

Originally from Des Moines, Iowa, Blasi served 10 years as an enlisted sailor before accepting a commission as a Supply Corps officer through the Enlisted Commissioning Program. Upon leaving active duty, she earned a Master of Public Administration from Portland State University.

Blasi replaces Cameron Smith, who has served as director of ODVA since 2013 and was appointed the new director of Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services.

"Cameron Smith's tenure as director has been a very transformational period in ODVA's history," Blasi said. "Under his leadership and with the passion and dedication of the ODVA team, the agency has reinvigorated and expanded its core programs and mobilized broad community partnerships to assure our veterans' health, education and economic opportunity. I am honored to continue building upon our work and the trust placed in me by Governor Brown, the ODVA team and the veteran community in Oregon."

Blasi is a longtime resident of Salem, where she is very active in the community. She serves on the Salem-Keizer School Board, the Salem Planning Commission and is a board member for the Mid-Valley Habitat for Humanity. She also co-founded a nonprofit that throws birthdays parties for children living in local homeless shelters.

"It has been a privilege and honor to serve Oregon's veterans and to work with the amazing team at ODVA for the past four and a half years," Smith said. "Sheronne Blasi is a proven leader and a tremendous advocate for veterans and their families, and she has my and our Advisory Committee's full confidence and support to lead our team and mission forward."

Oregon's Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA), a division of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, encourages employers and workers to attend the 17th annual summit at the Riverhouse on the Deschutes Convention Center in Bend.

The summit's keynote speaker is Russ Nicolai, safety director for Snyder, a commercial roofing contractor with offices in Oregon and Washington. During his Jan. 30 presentation, "Changing One's Perspective," Nicolai will discuss how innovations can create successes in protecting workers and boosting company performance.

The summit also offers opportunities for attendees to earn continuing education credits through Oregon's Construction Contractors Board and Landscape Contractors Board. Moreover, certification and re-certification will be offered for first aid personnel and workzone flaggers.

The two-day summit's other workshops include:
Construction A-Z. This session reviews the many hazards found in construction and demolition, and the best practices -- and requirements -- for correcting them.
General excavation safety.
Electrical safety and you.
Understanding and implementing the new silica standard for construction.
Defensive driving strategies for central Oregon.
Hand/power tools and personal protective equipment.

Registration for pre-conference workshops (Monday, Jan. 29) is $50. Conference registration (Monday, Jan. 30) is $85. Registration for the OSHA 10-hour training for construction is $140 for both days.

About Oregon OSHA:
Oregon OSHA, a division of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, enforces the state's workplace safety and health rules and works to improve workplace safety and health for all Oregon workers. For more information, go to www.osha.oregon.gov.

The Department of Consumer and Business Services is Oregon's largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. For more information, go to www.dcbs.oregon.gov.

Media Alert:
Consumer warning: As health care enrollment ends, beware of nontraditional health plans that are not available on HealthCare.gov

Complaints are on the rise from Oregonians being lured into purchasing nontraditional health insurance plans.

As the enrollment deadline nears, consumers are encouraged to purchase their health coverage only from a trusted source.

Nontraditional plans typically offer low-cost coverage, but are not available at HealthCare.gov. These plans often lead to high cost of care and a high tax penalty.

The Department of Consumer and Business Services encourages consumers to:
Beware of cold calls offering low-cost health coverage
Purchase health insurance only from a trusted source, such as an agent you trust or HealthCare.gov.
Do not sign any document stating the policy is not subject to Affordable Care Act (ACA) requirements

If you believe a low-cost, time-sensitive policy will meet your specific health care needs, follow the steps above, carefully review the exclusions under the policy, and understand your own financial risk.

For more information about ACA-compliant plans available in Oregon, visit OregonHealthcare.gov.

(Salem) -- Friday, Dec. 15, is the last day to get 2018 health insurance during open enrollment. Oregonians who do not get coverage through their job or another program should go to HealthCare.gov and choose a plan before time runs out. HealthCare.gov is the only place to get help paying for coverage.

"People who need coverage and haven't enrolled at HealthCare.gov could be leaving money on the table," said Chiqui Flowers, administrator of the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace. "They should go to HealthCare.gov by Friday and see if they qualify for financial assistance."

In 2017, more than 70 percent of Oregonians using HealthCare.gov qualified for financial assistance, and they received an average of $346 per month to help pay for coverage. This year, individuals making less than about $48,000 annually or families of four making less than about $98,000 annually may qualify.

A recent analysis estimated that many Oregonians who were eligible to use HealthCare.gov and receive financial assistance did not enroll last year, including more than 78,000 men and more than 33,000 people ages 25 to 34.

"Enrollment this year has been strong so far, but as the deadline approaches, it's essential to take action if you need coverage or, if you've already signed up, remind your friends and family that it's time to enroll and see if they can get help paying for coverage," Flowers said.

After the Dec. 15 deadline, people will be able to get 2018 coverage only in special circumstances, like when they move or lose job-related coverage.

###

The Department of Consumer and Business Services is Oregon's largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. DCBS houses both the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace and the Division of Financial Regulation, among other divisions. For more information, go to dcbs.oregon.gov.

"The Department of Corrections thanks Tualatin Police Department, the Oregon State Police, and the public for all of the tips, investigation, and hard work leading to Hocker's arrest. It's partnerships like these that help all of us to meet our mission of protecting the public, and we are pleased she is safe and back in custody," stated DOC Inspector General Craig Prins.

A minimum-custody inmate walked away Monday, Dec. 4, 2017, at 6:50 a.m. from Coffee Creek Correctional Facility in Wilsonville. She was on the way to a work assignment in Salem riding in a van, when she opened a door and fled.

Inmate Lorrie Marie Hocker, 42, is a white female, 5 ft. 3 in. weighing 145 lbs. She has blue eyes and brown hair. She was last seen wearing blue jeans with the word "inmate" stenciled on the knee in orange, a blue T-shirt, sweatshirt, and coat similarly stenciled.

She was admitted to CCCF on Sept. 12, 2017, on two counts of coercion out of Montana and one count of felony assault out of Lane County. She was scheduled for release in July, 2018.

The Oregon Department of Corrections Fugitive Apprehension Unit and the Oregon State Police are investigating. Anyone with information regarding her whereabouts should contact the Oregon State Police at 1-800-452-7888, the non-emergency number of their local police department, or the Oregon Department of Corrections Fugitive Apprehension Unit at 503-569-0734.

CCCF is a multi-custody prison in Wilsonville accommodating all of Oregon's female inmates (approximately 1,260). The prison has cell and dormitory housing, inmate work programs, skills training, treatment programs, health services, religious services, physical plant, a central records unit, and administrative areas. CCCF participates in prison industries with Oregon Corrections Enterprises, including a contact center, textiles, and document scanning. In addition, CCCF houses the state's intake center, which provides intake and evaluation of all inmates committed to state custody by the courts. The intake center houses approximately 400 male inmates. CCCF's minimum facility opened in 2001, and the medium facility opened in 2002.

The Oregon firefighters traveled from various points around the state to California on Friday and Saturday. All arrived over the weekend at the California Southern Region Prado Mobilization Center in Chino, about 35 miles east of Los Angeles.

The ODF firefighters are assigned to the Thomas Fire in Santa Barbara County. As of this morning, Cal Fire was reporting that close to 6,400 firefighters and more than 850 fire engines were engaged in fighting the fire, which is threatening a number of communities.

The five ODF task forces, each made up of five engines, were requested by California fire officials through an interstate resource-sharing system known as ROSS (Resource Ordering and Status System). They are in addition to over 300 other Oregon fire service personnel sent to fight Southern California fires by the Oregon State Fire Marshal's Office and fellow entities.

"California and Oregon have a longstanding relationship with mutual reciprocation when suppression resources are needed," said Oregon State Forester Peter Daugherty. "California was there for us during our challenging fire season this year and Oregon is fortunate to have the opportunity to return the favor."

Severe fire weather is expected to continue, promoting significant fire growth in Santa Barbara County, where a number of communities are under mandatory evacuation orders. For the latest information about the Thomas Fire, visit Cal Fire's incident information page at http://www.fire.ca.gov/current_incidents. # # #

SALEM, Ore.--The Oregon Department of Revenue's Coos Bay satellite office will close permanently due to the retirement of the office's only staff member. The last operating day for the office will be December 28, 2017.

"We look forward to continuing to support taxpayers with our services online, by phone, and in our Eugene and Medford field offices," said JoAnn Martin, administrator of the Personal Tax and Compliance Division.

Taxpayers who used the satellite office's services are encouraged to visit www.oregon.gov/dor to find field-office contact information, call the department's main office in Salem toll-free at (800) 356-4222, or email questions.dor@oregon.gov for assistance.

There are also a number of self-service options available through the department's new web application, Revenue Online. With an account, taxpayers can view their account details, make payments, view letters from the department, and correspond securely with staff. Visit www.oregon.gov/dor for more information or to sign up for a Revenue Online account.

All times listed on this agenda are approximate and subject to change. Agenda items may also be taken out of order and addressed at different times than listed. The agenda may be amended by the Council at the time of the meeting.

Dec. 12, 2017 - Salem, Ore. -- Cyril Osborne had a little fun before claiming his Win for Life win.

Osborne, from Portland, matched all four numbers on his Win for Life ticket to win the game's top prize of $1,000 a week for life.

However, Osborne has a history of playing pranks on his wife of 47 years. So when he told his wife he won, she wouldn't believe him.

"I didn't tell her when I first got home. I just smiled a lot. She knew something was up. When I told her, she thought I was playing around," he said. "I had to get my iPad out and show her the numbers on the website before she would believe me."

Osborne purchased his winning quick pick ticket at the Safeway on Highland Drive in Gresham.

"I do the grocery shopping and I pick up a ticket every so often," Osborne said. "I bought the Win for Life because it has more numbers than other tickets. When I went back to the store, I realized I won the top prize!"

Osborne opted to take $52,000 per year as an annual payment, rather than the $1,000 a week option. He also said the money was going toward his retirement.

"That $2 ticket is paying out rather handsomely!" he said.

Proceeds from Oregon Lottery sales help fund public education, parks, economic development and watershed projects. During the 2015-17 biennium, more than $22 million of Lottery dollars went to economic development projects in Multnomah County.

The Oregon Lottery reminds players to always sign the back of their Lottery tickets, regardless of the game. In the event of winning a jackpot, they should consult with a trusted financial planner or similar professional to develop a plan for their winnings. Prize winners of more than $50,000 are advised to contact the Lottery office and schedule an appointment to claim their prize.

Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned more than $11 billion for economic development, public education, state parks and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org

Visitors to Oregon state parks in 2016 contributed $1.1 billion to the state's economy and supported 16,000 full- and part-time jobs, according to a report released today by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD).

The report, Economic Activity from Recreation Use of Oregon State Park Properties -- System Report, measures how communities near parks benefited economically from the 54 million-plus visits to state parks in 2016. Visitor spending supported 16,000 full-and part-time jobs statewide, equating to a combined salary of $550 million.

"The report clearly shows that Oregon's state parks are more than great places to visit, but also a vital economic engine for local economies across the state," said OPRD recreation planner Terry Bergerson.

OPRD's analysis of the report found that each dollar invested in the Oregon State Parks system generates $30.50 in related economic activity.

OPRD commissioned economist Eric White, a research social scientist with the USDA Forest Service Pacific Northwest Research Station, to prepare the report at a cost of $45,697 over a six year period. White analyzed survey responses from more than 18,000 visitors from 84 park properties. OPRD conducted the surveys from 2011-2016.

"We wanted to measure the economic benefits state parks bring to the state," said OPRD Director Lisa Sumption. "The findings are clear: when state parks succeed, so do Oregon communities. We want to keep it that way, so we continue to look at what we can do to improve visitors' experiences."

The report provides information by region and by park. Coastal parks had the greatest number of visits and slightly higher levels of average spending, accounting for about half of the total statewide spending.

Silver Falls State Park provided the largest economic boost, with 1.4 million visits contributing $58.4 million to the local economy. Fort Stevens State Park followed with $40.1 million, and Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site with $34.8 million.

"State parks are also an important side trip during many recreation outings," White said. "We estimate visitors spend about $245 million in local communities during those side trips."

Other key findings include:

>> Visitors spend an average of $25 for a day trip within 30 miles from home to $390 for an overnight camping trip more than 30 miles from home.

>>Visitors most often spend money on gasoline, groceries and purchases in restaurants and bars.

>> More than half ($619 million) of visitor spending across all state parks was generated by visitors who traveled more than 30 miles from home, and who stayed overnight on the property or in a nearby community.

Port Orford OR -- For the seventh year in a row, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is partnering with America's State Parks to offer free guided First Day Hikes in state parks across Oregon on New Year's Day. Information about the special hike hosted at Humbug Mountain State Park is below.

Hikers can register for the hike at the Oregon State Parks Store, http://bit.ly/HumbugFDH2018 . Online registration is new this year--although not required--and will help park staff plan for the hike and provide them with participant contact information should hike details change.

Hike time: 10 a.m.
Starting location: Campground flag pole
Terrain and length of trail: Moderate two-mile hike along the Fern, Oregon Coast, and Amphitheater trails. Dogs permitted on a 6-foot leash. This hike is recommended for children at least 6 years old.
Contact information:(541) 332-6774
Additional details: Discover over a dozen different species of native ferns that are thriving along the slopes, cliff edges, waterways, and overarching tree limbs of our trails.

Participants should dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, and bring water as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via Twitter and Instagram by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes or tagging "Oregon State Parks" on Facebook.

Depoe Bay OR -- For the seventh year in a row, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is partnering with America's State Parks to offer free guided First Day Hikes in state parks across Oregon on New Year's Day. Information about the special hike hosted at Boiler Bay State Scenic Viewpoint is below.

Hikers can register for the hike at the Oregon State Parks Store, http://bit.ly/BoilerBayFDH2018 . Online registration is new this year--although not required--and will help park staff plan for the hike and provide them with participant contact information should hike details change.

Florence OR -- For the seventh year in a row, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is partnering with America's State Parks to offer free guided First Day Hikes in state parks across Oregon on New Year's Day. Information about the special hike hosted at Darlingtonia State Natural Site is below.

Hikers can register for the hike at the Oregon State Parks Store, http://bit.ly/DarlingtoniaFDH2018 . Online registration is new this year--although not required--and will help park staff plan for the hike and provide them with participant contact information should hike details change.

Hike time: 1 p.m.
Starting location: Darlingtonia State Natural Site parking lot
Terrain and length of trail: Easy quarter of a mile hike. Dogs allowed on a 6-foot leash.
Contact information: (541) 997-3851
Additional details: We'll stop to view the cobra lily and learn about the interesting nature of this carnivorous plant. This hike is more of a walk and everyone is invited to attend.

Participants should dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, and bring water as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via Twitter and Instagram by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes or tagging "Oregon State Parks" on Facebook.

Coos Bay OR -- For the seventh year in a row, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is partnering with America's State Parks to offer free guided First Day Hikes in state parks across Oregon on New Year's Day. Information about the special hike hosted at Sunset Bay State Park is below.

Hikers can register for the hike at the Oregon State Parks Store, http://bit.ly/SunsetBayFDH2018 . Online registration is new this year--although not required--and will help park staff plan for the hike and provide them with participant contact information should hike details change.

Hike time: 1 p.m.
Starting location: Sunset Bay Gazebo
Terrain and length of trail: Easy four-mile hike along the Oregon Coast trail. We recommend this hike for children at least 6 years old. Dogs permitted on the trail must be on a 6-foot leash. Dogs are not allowed in the botanical garden.
Contact information: (541) 888-9778
Additional details: See stunning ocean panoramas, the pristine coastal forest, and spectacular views of the rugged Oregon coastline and Cape Arago Lighthouse.

Participants should dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, and bring water as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via Twitter and Instagram by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes or tagging "Oregon State Parks" on Facebook.

Lakeside OR -- For the seventh year in a row, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is partnering with America's State Parks to offer free guided First Day Hikes in state parks across Oregon on New Year's Day. Information about the special hike hosted at William M. Tugman State Park is below.

Hikers can register for the hike at the Oregon State Parks Store, http://bit.ly/TugmanFDH2018 . Online registration is new this year--although not required--and will help park staff plan for the hike and provide them with participant contact information should hike details change.

Hike time: 10 a.m.
Starting location: The gazebo in the day-use area
Terrain and length of trail: Moderate three-mile hike along the South trail. We recommend this hike for children at least 6 years old. Dogs permitted on 6-foot leash. No child strollers.
Contact information: (541) 271-4118
Additional details: Enjoy the beautiful scenery while viewing and learning about native plants and wildlife.

Participants should dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, and bring water as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via Twitter and Instagram by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes or tagging "Oregon State Parks" on Facebook.

Newport OR -- For the seventh year in a row, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is partnering with America's State Parks to offer free guided First Day Hikes in state parks across Oregon on New Year's Day. Information about the special hike hosted at South Beach State Park is below.

Hikers can register for the hike at the Oregon State Parks Store, http://bit.ly/SouthBeachFDH2018 . Online registration is new this year--although not required--and will help park staff plan for the hike and provide them with participant contact information should hike details change.

Hike time: 10 a.m.
Starting location: South Beach day-use area
Terrain and length of trail: Easy, two-mile round trip hike on the South Jetty Trail. Dogs permitted on 6-foot leash. No child strollers on the second leg through dune grass. We recommend this hike for children at least 5 years old.
Contact information: (541) 867-7451
Additional details: Come and see a beautiful and crooked coastal pine forest that leads into a dune and beach-grass soft trail. Learn about the ever expanding coastline.

Participants should dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, and bring water as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via Twitter and Instagram by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes or tagging "Oregon State Parks" on Facebook.

Eugene OR -- For the seventh year in a row, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is partnering with America's State Parks to offer free guided First Day Hikes in state parks across Oregon on New Year's Day. Information about the special horse ride hosted at Elijah Bristow State Park is below.

Hikers can register for the hike at the Oregon State Parks Store, http://bit.ly/BristowFDH2018. Online registration is new this year--although not required--and will help park staff plan for the hike and provide them with participant contact information should hike details change.

Hike time: Noon
Starting location: Equestrian parking area. Bring your own horse or mule.
Terrain and length of trail: Four-mile horse ride on the Heron, Elk and River Loop trails
Contact information: (541) 937-1173
Additional details: All are welcome, but foot hikers should be comfortable near horses. If you are hiking, the ranger can recommend other routes based on current conditions.

Participants should dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, and bring water as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via Twitter and Instagram by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes or tagging "Oregon State Parks" on Facebook.

The Oregon State Library Board will meet by phone on Monday December 18, 2017 from 1:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Ann Malkin of Bend will chair the meeting.

The Board will discuss and vote on the proposed 2018 LSTA Grant Program Application and Instructions.

Members of the public who wish to attend the meeting may come to Room 205 at the Oregon State Library. To listen to this meeting via telephone, please contact Robin Speer for information (503-378-5015, robin.speer@state.or.us). Meeting materials will be available on the State Library website.

Sign language interpretation will be provided for the public if requested prior to 48 hours before the meeting; notice prior to 72 hours before the meeting is preferred. Handouts of meeting materials may also be requested in alternate formats prior to 72 hours before the meeting. Requests may be made to Robin Speer at 503-378-5015.

The Executive Committee of the Oregon State Library Board of Trustees will meet by phone on Monday December 18, 2017. Ann Malkin of Bend will chair the meeting, which will begin at 1:00 p.m.

Members of the public who wish to attend the meeting may come to Room 205 at the Oregon State Library. To listen to this meeting via telephone, please contact Robin Speer for information (503-378-5015, robin.speer@state.or.us).

Sign language interpretation will be provided for the public if requested prior to 48 hours before the meeting; notice prior to 72 hours before the meeting is preferred. Handouts of meeting materials may also be requested in alternate formats prior to 72 hours before the meeting. Requests may be made to Robin Speer at 503-378-2464.

Wells Fargo bank branches throughout Oregon and S.W. Washington are helping out those in need by collecting donations of food and toys this month.

All of the donations made at each branch will stay in the community where they were given to support local residents.

The company's annual toy drive in Oregon and S.W. Washington is taking place now through Friday, Dec. 15. Members of the public are welcome to drop off a new, unwrapped toy at any Wells Fargo branch.

Wells Fargo will give the donated toys to local nonprofits for distribution to children from low- and moderate-income families.

Food Drive Runs to Dec. 30
This year Wells Fargo branches in this region are also participating in the company's first-ever national food drive now until Dec. 30. All of the non-perishable food collected from the public will be donated to local nonprofit groups.

To help in the effort, Wells Fargo has also created four "mobile pop-up food banks" that are currently traveling throughout the nation to collect food donations. One of the pop-ups will make a number of appearances in Portland, Beaverton and Tigard this month.

The mobile food bank will appear:

Outside the Moda Center before Trail Blazer games Dec. 20, 22 and 28;

At the Beaverton Town Square shopping center Dec. 21 and 23;

At the Washington Square Mall Dec. 27 and 29.

Deploying approximately 5,900 bank branches and 268,000 team members, the national food drive encourages customers, communities and Wells Fargo employees to give food at its branches, donate money to United Way and volunteer with hunger-related organizations.

"The winter holidays are a time for coming together in fellowship with friends and family," said Wells Fargo Region Bank President Tracy Curtis of Portland. "Yet one in seven American families depends on the kindness of others to partake in meals during this season."

"And so many children go without gifts during the holidays because their families can't afford them," added Wells Fargo Region Bank President Cindy Johnson of McMinnville. "The Wells Fargo toy and food drives are two great ways we can use our branch network and other company locations to help those neighbors and friends who need our support."

$5 Million Donation
Working with United Way Worldwide to create a long-term, high impact program that will support hunger-related causes in our local communities, Wells Fargo donated an additional $5 million grant to the United Way in support of this effort.

"This donation from Wells Fargo will support local United Ways' fight to address hunger in communities and provide families with vital resources to live healthier lives," said Brian Gallagher, United Way Worldwide President and CEO. "Wells Fargo's strong relationship with United Way is a critical part of our fight to tackle our nation's toughest challenges and create solutions that strengthen the quality of life for individuals and families."

Volunteering 5,000 Hours
Wells Fargo has also committed to volunteering 5,000 hours nationally during the food drive and is encouraging its employees to support food-based nonprofit organizations in their local communities throughout the holidays.

Serving the Pacific Northwest since 1852, Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE: WFC) is a diversified, community-based financial services company with $1.9 trillion in assets. The company provides banking, insurance, investment, mortgage, and consumer and commercial finance services. The Chronicle of Philanthropy ranked Wells Fargo third on its most recent list of the top corporate cash philanthropists. Last year Wells Fargo donated $281.3 million to 14,900 nonprofits and Wells Fargo team members volunteered 1.73 million hours with 50,000 nonprofits.

(Redmond, Ore.) -- Christmas arrived early for Redmond, Oregon residents Brett and Bibiana Limbeck. The Limbeck's thought they were doing a construction walkthrough with their real estate broker when they were surprised by an entourage of people as Hayden Homes announced them winners of the $25,000 Dream Backyard Giveaway.

The Limbeck's purchased a home in the Hayden Homes' Obsidian Trails Community in September 2017. They entered the drawing along with 6,000 people who visited Hayden Homes' model homes in Washington, Oregon and Idaho neighborhoods and the company's website during the summer $25,000 backyard giveaway promotion.

"This is unbelievable," Bibiana said. "It's something you dream about but never think will happen to your family."

Brett works at a water and waste water treatment facility and Bibiana owns a cleaning company and teaches Zumba at Redmond Athletic Club. The Limbeck's have four children, Anthony, Kevin, Brandon and Maddison. Their home will be completed in March 2018.

The Limbeck's are already looking forward to their first design meeting to take place with Hayden Homes' Chief Executive Officer, Dennis Murphy, in January. All plans will be finalized in time for the installation of the new backyard in summer 2018.

About Hayden Homes
Hayden Homes provides high-quality, value-driven homes throughout Oregon, Washington and Idaho. Established in Redmond, Oregon in 1989, Hayden Homes has built more than 14,000 homes in over 300 new home communities. Hayden Homes continues to be the largest privately owned new home builder in the Pacific Northwest.

With a commitment to building strong communities together, Hayden Homes has contributed $2.5 billion to local economies and creates more than 5500 jobs annually. Hayden Homes supports philanthropic efforts in the communities in which they build and have contributed more than $13.3 million in charitable donations with the flagship of their giving through the 501C3 nonprofit, First Story. To date, First Story has provided 69 workforce families throughout the Pacific Northwest with an affordable home ownership opportunity and a first step toward financial freedom. The Hayden Homes brand family of companies includes Simplicity by Hayden Homes, Wise Size Homes and Hayden Homes, all providing an unparalleled selection of opportunities for those looking to purchase a new home.

Summary: New "Spot the Hazards" videos make holiday safety as fun and warm as an ugly sweater.
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'Tis the season for holiday hazards--from chestnuts roasting on an open fire to walking in a winter wonderland, safety risks are everywhere this time of year.

That's why SAIF has released two 360-degree videos today to help remind Oregonians about small things that can add up to big trouble. The videos, where viewers try to spot holiday hazards, highlight home holiday safety risks (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AVgkKWf9CsM&feature=youtu.be) and work holiday safety risks (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kAGekhhO46M&feature=youtu.be).

"Most people know not to step on the top part of a ladder, or to remove tripping hazards," said Leigh Manning, senior safety consultant at SAIF. "But when you're on deadline for holiday parties and workplace projects, it's easy to take the risk."

In addition to the videos, Manning offers the following tips to stay safe and have a happy holiday season, both at work and home:

Remember ladder safety. Make sure you have the right ladder for the job. Do not overreach or lean too far to one side on the ladder, and always face the ladder when climbing up or down. Keep in mind, you have climbed too high if your knees are above the top of the stepladder.
Don't overload circuits. Too many plugs can overload a circuit, leading to a power outage or an electrical hazard.
Remove trip hazards. Decorations and extension cords can be tucked to the side so they don't cause a hazard.
Avoid heavy loads. Carrying too many gifts or packages can be bad for your back.
Reduce sweets. Holiday treats are fine in moderation, but consider bringing healthy snacks to workplace potlucks or holiday parties.
Manage stress. It's easy to get stressed this time of year, but too much stress can lead to poor health. Visit www.saif.com/relax for tips on how to manage it.

"We hope people will speak up with their friends, family, and co-workers," says Manning.

About SAIF
SAIF is Oregon's not-for-profit workers' compensation insurance company. For more than 100 years, we've been taking care of injured workers, helping people get back to work, and striving to make Oregon the safest and healthiest place to work. For more information, visit the About SAIF page on saif.com.

What: SAIF will be presenting a free half-day seminar on agriculture safety and health.

Who should attend: The seminar is designed primarily for people working in agriculture, but is open to anyone interested in ag safety and health--they don't have to be insured by SAIF.

When: Tuesday, December 19 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Lunch is included.

Where: Benton County Fairgrounds' Guerber Hall at 110 SW 53rd Street.

More information: www.saif.com/agseminars. Photos from last year's seminars are available by request.
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SAIF's free farm safety seminars kick off Oct. 31
Annual seminars visiting 16 cities between now and March.

While agriculture has its fair share of injuries and illnesses, it's not easy for workers and employers to get away from the fields to learn how to reduce risks. That's why SAIF is using the off-season--October through March--to conduct its annual ag safety seminars.

SAIF has presented the free, half-day seminars for more than 20 years. SAIF will be presenting in 16 cities across the state, with a separate Spanish seminar in nine cities.

The full schedule and registration details can be found at saif.com/agseminars.

The seminars are designed primarily for people working in agriculture, but are open to anyone interested in ag safety and health--they don't have to be insured by SAIF.

Spanish-language seminars will be held in Central Point, Hermiston, Hillsboro, Hood River, Klamath Falls, Salem, The Dalles, Wilsonville, and Woodburn.

Each seminar is held from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and includes lunch. The first one will be October 31 in Ontario.

This year's topics include mechanical hazards, ergonomics, safety leadership and communication skills, and the difference between safety and compliance.

Employers with small ag businesses who attend the seminar will meet OSHA's instructional requirement, one of four requirements that exempt small agricultural operations from random OSHA inspections.

The Oregon State Landscaping Contractors Board has approved the seminar for four hours of continuing education credits and the Department of Consumer and Business Services has approved the seminar for four hours of producer continuing education credits.

View the complete schedule or register at saif.com/agseminars. You can also register by calling 800.285.8525.

About SAIF
SAIF is Oregon's not-for-profit workers' compensation insurance company. For more than 100 years, we've been taking care of injured workers, helping people get back to work, and striving to make Oregon the safest and healthiest place to work. For more information, visit the About SAIF page on saif.com.

These leaders advanced policies to support Oregon's family caregivers, who help their parents, spouses and other loved ones live independently at home and in the community--where they want to be.

"AARP thanks Senators Steiner Hayward, Winters, Devlin and Knopp, and Representatives Nathanson, Rayfield and Smith for championing the preservation of funding for long term supports and services that help to keep Oregonians in their own homes this year," says Jerry Cohen, state director of AARP Oregon. "They provided key leadership to pass a budget this year that does not cut critical services for older Oregonians and helped make the big responsibilities of family caregivers a little bit easier."

The state budget that passed during the 2017 legislative session prevented proposed cuts to programs like Oregon Project Independence, which provides basic help to older families to help keep people in their own homes. The budget also protected funding for family caregiver training programs and the Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon (ADRC) that helps people find appropriate care, supports, and resources.

Across Oregon, about 470,00 Oregonians provide unpaid care for their older parents, spouses, children and adults with disabilities, and other loved ones-- valued at about $5.7 billion annually. They help with bathing and dressing, meal preparation, managing finances, transportation, grocery shopping and more.

AARP Oregon will present the Capitol Caregiver awards to these legislators January 11 during legislative days at the State Capitol in Salem.

"Funding long term supports and services is just a first step to providing help for family caregivers," says Cohen. "AARP will continue to fight for Oregon's family caregivers and their loved ones in 2018: for more support, help at home, workplace flexibility, training, relief and more.

The Oregon awards are part of national recognition by AARP to 100 lawmakers around the country who worked in a bipartisan way to support family caregivers.
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About AARP
AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With nearly 38 million members and offices in every state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, AARP works to strengthen communities and advocate for what matters most to families with a focus on health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the world's largest circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org or follow @AARP and @AARPadvocates on social media.

Disaster responders with the local American Red Cross responded to a single-family home fire disaster on Dec 8, 2017, at approximately 12:30 a.m. in the 83000 block of OR-99 in Creswell, Ore. The fire affected two adults, one child, and their pets.

The Red Cross provided resources to help address the immediate basic needs of those affected such as temporary housing, food, clothing, comfort kits with toiletry items, information about recovery services, and health and mental health services. Additional information about this incident, if available, may be obtained from the local first responding agency/fire department.

The Red Cross in Oregon and Southwest Washington (the Cascades Region) helps an average of three families affected by disasters, like home fires, every day. The Red Cross advocates emergency preparedness and offers the installation of free smoke alarms in our community. Residents may call (503) 528-5783 or complete an online form at www.redcross.org/CascadesHomeFire to schedule an appointment.

The mission of Chess for Success is to help children develop the skills necessary for success in school and in life through learning chess. In 1992 Dick Roy, Phil Margolin, and Frank Eiseman saw a need in our community for chess programs for vulnerable students. They knew from experience that chess teaches critical thinking, perseverance, and concentration among other skills. It improves behavior and school attendance, because children want to go to school so they can go to chess club. Through chess, children learn skills that help them become college and career ready.
With this goal in mind, Chess for Success was born. Chess for Success sponsors after-school chess clubs in high-poverty schools. A teacher is hired from within the school and provided curriculum and support. To promote club unity, every student in the program receives a t-shirt their club designs. The students receive free entry into all Chess for Success tournaments. At the end of the year, they get a chess set. By giving students the opportunity to learn an engaging game while learning important life skills, Chess for Success is at the forefront of developing our next industry leaders.
This year Chess for Success is celebrating its 25th anniversary. The program started at nine elementary schools in the Portland Public School District: Applegate, Beach, Boise-Eliot, Brooklyn, Clarendon, Humboldt, Peninsula, John Ball (now Rosa Parks), and Vernon. Now, our reach stretches over 70 clubs across the state from Hermiston to Grants Pass, and one club in Vancouver, Washington. There are programs in therapeutic schools for students who struggle in a standard school setting, and schools for incarcerated youth. Currently, over 30% of program participants are girls, an unusually high number for a chess program. During the last 25 years, Chess for Success has reached 45,600 students, supplied 114,000 chess sets, and provided 1,824,000 hours of after-school chess lessons.
Chess for Success is grateful our community has risen to the occasion to help students reach their full potential through chess. We would like to thank our coaches, volunteers, donors, and advocates as well as the families of our participants. You are the unsung heroes of the program, and we are successful because of you.
Research found that students involved in Chess for Success had higher math and reading test scores than their peers. Participation in chess club led to an increased interest in STEM (Science Technology Engineering Math) for boys and girls. Our nation is facing an increased need for people in STEM careers. Encouraging children to play chess puts many of them on the path to STEM careers, an opportunity many need.
We are committed to our mission. I encourage you to support Chess for Success. There are programs in 22 school districts across 10 counties, and tournaments are held around the state from January through March. I invite you to visit a club to watch the joy chess brings to our participants. There is nothing like it.

Portland, OR -- Back by popular demand, museums and attractions in the Portland metro area and beyond have teamed up to offer a reciprocal membership program in 2018. Created by members of the Portland Attractions Marketing Alliance (PAMA) in 2015, this special promotion was initiated as a way to show appreciation for each attraction's loyal members, as well as to highlight the important role that cultural attractions play in the community.

PAMA is excited to announce the addition of four new attractions to the reciprocal membership program. The Architectural Heritage Center, Clark County Historical Museum, Columbia River Maritime Museum, and Oregon Coast Aquarium join the Oregon Zoo, World Forestry Center, Oregon Historical Society, Lan Su Chinese Garden, Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks & Minerals, Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum, Washington County Museum, & Deepwood Museum & Gardens in offering its members free admission for up to four people during the months listed below:

Members must present a valid membership card from one of the participating organizations to receive free admission. Free admission is valid for up to four individuals, regardless of membership level.

About the Portland Attractions Marketing Alliance

The Portland Attractions Marketing Alliance (PAMA) is a professional organization consisting of marketing representatives from major attractions in Portland and beyond the metro area. The group meets bi-monthly and explores partnership opportunities, ideas for cross-promotion, and collaboration with Travel Portland.

Portland, OR -- Santa Claus will be landing his sleigh in Santaland this month at the Oregon Historical Society! All are welcome to visit Santa Claus from 12pm to 4pm on December 9, 10, 16, 17, and 23. Admission to Santaland and to see Santa is free, and visitors are invited to take their own photos with St. Nick.

Items from Meier & Frank's popular Santaland display will be on view at the Oregon Historical Society through December. The display, donated to OHS following the closure of Macy's downtown store this past year, includes Santa's chair, Rudolph, animatronic elves, and a decorated Christmas tree!

As a special holiday gift from the Oregon Historical Society, admission to the museum will also be discounted to $5 for the month of December. Youth (18 and under) will be admitted for free. A visit to one of the Oregon Historical Society's permanent exhibitions is the perfect indoor outing over Winter Break! From the award-winning early Oregon history exhibition Oregon My Oregon to the museum's newest kid-created permanent exhibit, History Hub, there is plenty to explore downtown! Multnomah County residents receive free admission every day to the Oregon Historical Society.

About the Oregon Historical Society

For more than a century, the Oregon Historical Society has served as the state's collective memory, preserving a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, maps, manuscript materials, books, films, and oral histories. Our research library, museum, digital platforms & website (www.ohs.org), educational programming, and historical journal make Oregon's history open and accessible to all. We exist because history is powerful, and because a history as deep and rich as Oregon's cannot be contained within a single story or point of view.